Presented by Robert Clark MP		www.robertclark.net

Docklands to get film and television studios and theme park

The Premier, Mr Kennett, has announced plans for a $500-million film and television studio and theme park in Melbourne’s Docklands precinct.

The Studio City complex and Paramount theme park are expected to create 2200 jobs during construction and more than 450 full-time jobs in operation.

The Premier said the development on a 29-hectare site in the Docklands business park of six new film and television sound studios equipped with state-of-the-art digital technology would generate $50 million a year from studio activity and up to $230 million a year through increased tourism.

"The Viacom, Paramount, Nickelodeon and local WIN television brands are synonymous with quality film and television and their investment in the local industry shows the value they place on Victoria as a film location and creative skills base.

"The studios will be used by leading production companies including Crawfords, Global and Channel 7 and be open for use by the local independent film industry," Mr Kennett said.

Mr Kennett said the Government had increased its commitment to the Victorian film and television industry by providing $12 million over four years towards script development and attracting film producers to Victoria.

(News Release, Office of the Premier, August 20, 1999)